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Background: Macrolophus caliginosus Wagner is one of the most important polyphagous predatory mirid bug that attack many agriculture insect pests. Methods: The present study was carried out to show the effect of different prey stages as Tuta absoluta (eggs and fourth larval stage), Bemisia tabaci (eggs and three nymph stages) and Aphids gossypii (1st nymph stage) on the life cycle and consumption rate of male and females of M. caliginosus as predator under laboratory condition. The experiments were started by collecting the first stage of M. caliginosus nymph and placed separately on acalypha plants situated on saturated cotton pads inside Petri dishes with an excess of each prey. Results: The results showed that the developmental period of the total immature stages of M. caliginosus female are affected by type and stage of tested prey. So, the duration of larval stages of female was significantly recorded the longest in case of feeding on eggs of T. absoluta compare to 1st nymph of A. gossypii. In addition to extension the adult longevity of female M. caliginosus, which fed on the 1st nymphal instar of B. tabaci more than the other pests. The consumption rate of total immature stages and adult M. caliginosus female were fed on eggs of B. tabaci was more than the other test pests. While the consumption rate of total immature stages and adult of male M. caliginosus were fed on eggs of B. tabaci was higher than that of the other pests. Conclusions: The search was given the highlight focus on ability of mirid bugs to consume different insect species "stages" that might be facilitate rear predatory bugs under laboratory condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building energy consumption in China accounts for 45% of the total national energy consumption, with air conditioning energy consumption representing approximately two-thirds of that. Therefore, energy efficiency in buildings is of utmost importance. This study focuses on a chemical industrial park located along the Fujiang River and compares three heating and cooling supply schemes: the river water source heat pump system, which utilizes river water as the heat source and heat sink; the water cooling unit and boiler system, which uses water-cooled electric compression chillers for cooling and an oil-fired boiler system for heating; and the split air conditioning and gas water heater scheme, which relies on refrigerants such as fluorine-containing compounds for cooling and a gas water heater for heating. By calculating the energy consumption of the above three schemes and conducting a comparative analysis, it is found that the river water source heat pump system exhibits significantly higher energy efficiency throughout the year compared to the water cooling unit and boiler system and the split air conditioning and gas water heater scheme. This highlights the notable energy efficiency advantage of the river water source heat pump system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper takes a sceptical look at the treatment of connected practices of commodification and consumption in some exemplary works of mainstream critical social theory that seek to identify cross-contextual historical logics linking economic action to socio-political life. Drawing on situated research from South and southern Africa that helps to complicate our understanding of these links, it argues that many influential claims in the mainstream critical literature remain poorly substantiated and pass silently over vast provinces of complex, situated thought and action. When analysing how markets function, recurrent critical tropes of highly manipulable consumer desire suffer from a tendency to argue by simple fiat, while also abstracting out the historically shifting forms of moral and legal regulation mediating commodification and consumption on most real-world markets. This paper also makes a case for greater scepticism towards categorical associations between market action and the reproduction of socio-political dispositions of power. Consumer behaviour undeniably can shore up distinction and domination, but it has often also been observed to tamper with them by indirect means, while concentrated consumer initiatives in the form of boycotts remain an under-theorised and largely forgotten form of resistance within mainstream critical social theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, I will discuss how neoliberalism affects subjects and what friendship looks like in the neoliberal world we live in. I will show that one of the most important consequences of neoliberal intervention on the subject is the severe damage to the bonds of friendship. In the neoliberal world, we live constantly in a competitive environment dominated by temporary relationships. Friendships seem to be valuable only to gain advantages and to be ahead of others. Those who have more influential ‘friends’ are more likely to get what they want. The concept of friendship, then, has to do with a meaning that involves calculating what one must contribute to obtain. In this article, I will try to explore how neoliberalism invests in the subject and how friendship is treated in the neoliberal world. I will ask how ‘true friendship’ can help us improve our lives by turning to the ways in which friendship shows up in the social relations in which we live. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study investigates the significance of perfume as a medium for self-expression and identity reflection. The research employs a qualitative approach, gathering narratives from twenty Middle Eastern participants who willingly participated in response to the researcher’s request. The findings illuminate the multifaceted role of perfume in the projection of diverse identities. Individuals employ perfume as a means to reveal different aspects of their personalities contingent upon the social context in which they find themselves. Furthermore, perfumes are utilized to convey specific images and convey particular meanings to the public. Beyond surface-level effects, perfumes hold profound implications for individuals’ psychological well-being, enhancing mood and fostering positive emotions. This research highlights the significance of cultural identity in the realm of perfume usage, demonstrating how scents can be employed as tools for cultural expression and preservation, ultimately contributing to the complex process of self-expression. The findings of this research offer valuable insights for perfume companies and marketing managers, empowering them to enhance their online communication with consumers and refine marketing strategies specifically tailored to Middle Eastern markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of plant-based products in healthcare systems has experienced a tremendous rise leading to a substantial increase in global demand. However, the quality and effectiveness of such plant-based treatments are often affected due to contamination of various pollutants including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Like other plants, medicinal plants also uptake and accumulate PAHs when exposed to a contaminated environment. The consumption of such medicinal plants and/or plant-based products causes negative effects on health rather than providing any therapeutic advantages. Unfortunately, research focusing on PAH accumulation in medicinal plants has received very limited attention. This review discusses a sizable number of literature regarding the concentration of sixteen priority PAH pollutants as recognised by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in different medicinal plants. The review also highlights the risk assessment of cancer associated with some medicinal plants in terms of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) equivalent concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented research relates to an IoT based device for sensing quality of food items using sensors, and more particularly relates to a device which shows its results through a mobile application, and further the user can check the quality of food item on his/her mobile device and proposes the work done in shooting up the efficiency of a device that detects the presence of different parameters in a food item on which it is judged to be fresh or tainted, at an early stage with the help of sensors, basically alerting us that if the food item is fine to consume or not. Due to the increasing number of food-borne diseases globally, the detection of food consumption has become an essential aspect of modern life. The system includes, but not limited to, a plurality of sensors for sensing varied parameters of a food item; a microcontroller unit for processing the signal received from the sensors; a mobile interface to show the results for freshness and quality about the food items. Different sensors detect the freshness of different food items based on various parameters like moisture, ethanol and alcohol content and humidity in the environment. Eat Fresh device mainly consist of a node microcontroller unit (MCU) and different types of sensors like ethanol sensor, humidity sensor, moisture sensor. The analogue results are passed to the pins of the Node microcontroller unit (MCU) which already have an inbuilt ADC (analogue to digital converter) that converts the analogue value to digital value. This device 'Eat-Fresh' is capable enough to help us check the safety of the food. Hence, preventing deaths due to food poisoning and helping us to put a stop on the wastage of food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, there is an increasing consumption of ultra-processed food products (UPFs), while more healthy options are available; however, there is no scale available that can adequately measure this phenomenon. In this context, the present study aims to develop and validate a measurement scale of the consumers' acceptance of ultra-processed food products. Research data (n = 478) were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), followed by a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The results confirm the validity of the proposed measurement scale comprising nine factors: the quality of ultra-processed food products, ability to save time, low affordable price, effortless preparation, convenience, hedonic nature, marketing strategies, satisfaction and purchase intention. The present study makes a noticeable contribution to food marketing, and food companies could consider these factors to design and commercialize ultra-processed foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supply chain disruptions, human and animal health concerns, and environmental impacts of livestock production have spurred renewed attention to animal protein consumption in the U.S. Prior research has sought to better understand animal protein consumption by assessing demographic and socioeconomic determinants. However, physical exercise represents a behavioral determinant of consumption that is societally important and, thus far, has not been considered in empirical assessments. Our objective was to quantify the association of exercise with the consumption of total protein, beef, pork, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy among U.S. adults. We analyzed 24 h dietary recall and physical activity data from adults in the 2007–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The association of exercise with protein consumption (total and disaggregated animal protein) was assessed using ordinary least squares and multivariate Tobit regression. Non-linear associations of exercise with total protein consumption were found, with the magnitude of association highest at 121–180 min per day of exercise. Non-linear associations were also found with animal protein consumption, which differed in sign and magnitude across protein sources. The magnitudes of association, paired with a sizable share of the study sample engaged in exercise, suggest a substantial influence of exercise on protein consumption habits in the U.S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper addresses a comprehensive historical assessment of water consumption, demand, and supply in Saudi Arabia, along with future projections regarding water balance, in terms of demand and supply by source in various sectors. Being an arid region, Saudi Arabia experiences scorching heat, low precipitation, a high rate of potential evaporation, and the absence of permanent water bodies over the territory. Groundwater contributes almost 61% of total available water, while the recharge rate is negligible. However, few widyan (ephemeral streams) systems exists to satisfy water demand, which could contribute to approximately one year of domestic water consumption if managed efficiently. The study also predicts water consumption scenarios for the next three consecutive development plans, i.e., the 10th plan (2015–2019), 11th plan (2020–2024), and 12th plan (2025–2029). The analysis shows that water consumption may decline significantly in the future, if the present rate of decline continues. Scenario I, if the current rate is assumed, provides a decrease in consumption of 14.36, 12.66, and 11.15 BCM for 10th, 11th, and 12th plans, respectively. Moreover, the domestic and industrial sectors will consume more water in the future. In the same way, scenarios II and III represent a decline in total water consumption, along with that of agriculture, while domestic and industrial water usage would increase, thus improving environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While existing studies assert that citizens actively use digital media to exert their political agency, the various roles and impacts of digital media should be further unpacked. Building on the notions of 'digital democratic affordance' and 'cross-platform play', this article uniquely theorises political consumerism as a multi-scalar mode of human–non-human interactions. The concept of multi-scalar cross-platform affordances is formulated to demonstrate how different digital platforms – large or small, corporate or amateur, global or local – co-constitute an environment in which citizens are progressively channelled to engage in multiple platforms, reinvent them in concert with one another and participate in political consumption across time and space. In the case of the Yellow Economic Circle, against the backdrop of Hong Kong's 2019–2020 Anti-Extradition Law Amendment Bill (Anti-ELAB) movement, we examine such cross-platform dynamics and their multi-scalar enactment of everyday political consumption practices across four stages: deliberation, crowdsourcing, materialisation and habituation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While literature suggests more aggressive cigarette tax reforms to reduce its affordability as well as the tobacco epidemic the tobacco industry argues that these measures, would affect the economy. The goal of this study is to analyze the size of the tobacco sector in Mexico through specific relevant variables on prices and brands and simulate different tobacco excise reforms. An increase in tobacco taxes would indeed decrease consumption and would increase revenues as well, when considering different and recent tobacco price elasticities. Elasticity was estimated for the year 2020 and changes on prices were computed by considering the most recent tobacco tax reforms in 2021 which updated the price according to rise on inflation and two additional reforms by using distinct cigarette brands. The results indicate that a specific tax of an additional peso and $1.50 pesos per cigarette would reduce consumption in the range from 21.7% to 27.7% and increase revenues from 13.4% to 22.7%. The novelty of this work is that the greatest reduction in consumption would be observed in lower-priced brands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to determine the frequency of fast-food consumption of university students, the reasons for consumption, the factors affecting the reasons for consuming ready-made food, and to determine the interaction rates of age groups and housing conditions with these factors. Students studying at Namık Kemal University Vocational School of Technical Sciences constitute the sample of the research. For this purpose, a face-to-face survey study was conducted with 326 students in the period covering December-January of the 2022-2023 academic year. According to the results of the research, a statistically significant relationship was found between the age groups of the participants and the frequency of consumption of ready-made food, the reason for consumption, the age of starting ready-made food consumption, the rate of preference for discounted products, and their comments on whether ready-made food is produced according to food legislation. In addition, the participants' accommodation status and the way of obtaining ready-made food, the rate of consumption of readymade food during the examination period, the consumption of ready-made food, the evaluation of the price of ready-made food, the rate of preference for discounted products, their comments on whether additives are used in ready-made food, gender, Height mass index (BMI)) was found to be statistically significant. Students generally stated that they consume ready-made food because it is practical, saves time, has a reasonable price, finds it delicious, consumes it with pleasure, because it has a large variety and for its nutritional value. In recent years, the increasing importance of time and the change in eating habits have increased the fast-food consumption of university youth. In our study, students in the 18-25 age group consumed ready-made food more frequently, while students over 50 stated that they consumed ready-made food once a month. This shows that nutritional preferences vary significantly with age range. It is very important to provide students with healthy eating habits, to improve their level of nutrition knowledge, and to reduce the risk of obesity. In our study, we aimed to determine the frequency of fast-food consumption of university students, the reasons for consumption, the factors affecting the reasons for consuming ready-made food, and to determine the interaction rates of age groups and housing conditions with these factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beyhan Sultan (1765–1824) was an Ottoman princess, the daughter of Sultan Mustafa III (r. 1757–1774) and his consort Adilşah Kadın. She was part of a group of high-born Ottoman women who led entirely separate lives with their own households during the last quarter of the eighteenth and the first quarter of the nineteenth century. However, very few studies have examined the lives and experiences of Ottoman princesses. In this article, I discuss issues such as consumption patterns, the freedom and privileges enjoyed by the princess and the composition and social networks of her household. I argue that Ottoman princesses, such as Beyhan Sultan, were able to extend their agency and visibility through the management of their households and consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Millets, with their exceptional nutritional value, nonglutinous nature, and digestive ease, offer a wealth of benefits. They are rich in lecithin and known to fortify the nervous system. While millets such as jowar are dietary staples in rural India, they have often been relegated to animal feed and birdseed elsewhere. Despite India's deep-rooted millet tradition, the consumption of pearl millet (bajra) declined by 67% in urban and 59% in rural areas between 1972-1973 and 2004-2005. Recognizing their potential, the Indian Government proposed the declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets to the UN. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to assess the consumption pattern of millets among the rural population and its association with the sociodemographic profile. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was done among rural households residing in the field practice area of the Rural Health Training Centre, Ukkali, Department of Community Medicine, BLDE (DU). By convenient sampling, we obtained a sample size of 94. Data were collected from the individuals, using a semistructured questionnaire, which encompassed both sociodemographic information and details regarding their consumption habits. Data were analyzed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 26, is developed and manufactured by IBM Corporation, headquartered in Armonk, New York, United States. RESULTS: In this study, a total of 94 participants were included. Out of these, 61 (64.9%) were male and 33 (35.1%) were female. The majority of participants, 74 individuals (79%), reported that they consumed millets as part of their diet, whereas a minority, 20 individuals (21%), did not include millets in their diet. CONCLUSION: This consumption rate can be attributed to Karnataka's status as the second-largest producer of millets, reflecting a strong connection between local production and consumption patterns. It emphasizes the importance of promoting millets as a staple food source not only for their nutritional benefits but also for their potential economic and agricultural advantages among urban population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The changing climate, rapid increases in global consumption, and shock events are increasing stress on water resources globally. For policy makers and water sector stakeholders tasked with reducing demand, and for academic researchers interested in understanding how these complex issues intertwine to create current and future water demand profiles, the shortcomings of individualized behavior change approaches driven by psycho‐econometric understandings of resource consumption is increasingly evident. Since the early 2000s, social practice theory has been increasingly recognized as deepening understandings of the complex ways water is consumed and the dynamic factors that influence household demands. This review examines evidence of how social practice ideas are deployed in academic research in scope (theory; geographical; practices entities/performances; sites, locations, and temporality of practices; infrastructural configurations); methods (historical; talk—interviews, focus groups; diaries; ethnography and home tours; surveys; living labs, experiments, design methods; mixed methods); and implications (co‐production; materiality; diversity; disruption and insecurity; inequalities) including for policy and practice. Emerging from the review is a set of ideas that demonstrate how to apply insights from social practice more effectively in water studies and in water management, aiding the exploration of new areas of enquiry, policies and mechanisms to enable less intensive patterns of water use. This review points to a need for increased collaboration across the water sector and wider stakeholders to enact deep and meaningful change to how water is supplied and consumed in society. This article is categorized under:Human Water > Water GovernanceHuman Water > MethodsHuman Water > Value of Water [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Esferas is the property of Esferas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ictimaiyat is the property of Ictimaiyat and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Humanitarian logics enable the unfree labour of racialized capitalism by making visible the beneficence of those who profit. Understanding the structure of feelings undergirding these imaginaries will help us to recognize why capitalism feels so right. This paper theorizes from the case of the Made in Prison company selling luxury clothing under the brand, Carcel, to explain how linking consumption with 'helping' remakes exploitation into gendered solidarity. Combining ethnography in Peru, political economy and narrative analysis, the paper explores how prison-produced fashion is made 'ethical' through intimization of the relationship between feminine labourers and their 'sister' consumers. The paper does two things: (1) it charts how the imaginary of commodifying compassion works through three movements around the company, products and workers of Carcel and (2) it argues that love and sisterly solidarity connect the company, workers and products in ways that are then commodified for profit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of macroprudential policy (MaPP) on macroeconomic conditions. Using data from 2004-2005 to 2019-2020, this study finds that increased use of MaPP is associated with higher consumption and economic growth. However, this study does not find a significant effect on inflation. From a threshold perspective, the study reveals that MaPP has a positive impact on consumption and economic growth up to a threshold level of 34.00; however, above this level, MaPP has a negative impact on both variables. Similarly, MaPP has a positive impact on inflation rates below the threshold level but has a negative impact above it. From a tail risk perspective, MaPP has a positive impact on the bottom quantile of economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phyllosphere hosts a considerable number of microorganisms, providing a vast habitat for naturally associated phyllobacteria due to its topography as it offers various colonization and infiltration sites. Contamination of vegetables may occur through pre-harvest and post-harvest activities and include cross-contamination from infected personnel. The study aimed to examine the prevalence of microbial contamination for spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) at various farms based on the production and agronomic systems in South Africa, Free State. In addition, the study further demonstrated that several potentially pathogenic microorganisms are present in common fresh leafy greens such as spinach and cabbage. Almost all the analyzed and identified microorganisms were reported to be opportunistic pathogens. Spinach and cabbage phyllosphere were contaminated mostly with Staphylococcaceae, Pseudomonadaceae, Morganellaceae, Caulobacteraceae, Moraxellaceae, Burkholderiaceae, Yersiniaceae, Xanthomonadaceae, Listeriaceae and total coliform species. The predominant genera were Staphylococcaceae, Morganellaceae and Pseudomonadaceae in spinach and cabbage isolates. The analysed isolates revealed a high level of contamination by opportunistic pathogens such as total coliform, Morganellaceae and Staphylococcaceae reflecting a deficit of good agricultural production systems and hygiene practice. From the study, the authors could also demonstrate the rapid rate at which these pathogens can spread through the food chain and cause food poisoning. It is concluded that the bacterial contamination frequency and degree in this present study was significantly considerable and recommended that these vegetables be thoroughly washed before any consumption especially when consumed uncooked, specifically in green salad. Moreover, preparing cooked meals using these leafy vegetables would be better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focusing on EU countries, we analyze the influence of immigration flows on the demand for different aggregate categories of final consumption goods. Using the cross-country heterogeneity in immigration flows and preference structures, we find that when people move from a country to another, the sectoral preferences characterizing the origin country affect the preference structure of the host country. Furthermore, we find evidence that the transmission mechanism is reinforced by both the intensity of the immigration flows and the share of immigrants already living in the host country, suggesting a higher propensity to assimilate different consumption standards in more pluralistic countries. Our contribution is twofold. First, differently from most of the literature that analyzes the supply-side consequences of immigration, this study focuses on the impact of immigration on the demand side at the aggregate level. Second, we show that sectoral consumer preferences, even if elicited only residually, represent aggregate variables that can be transferred across countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Marketing & Marketing Research / Pazarlama ve Pazarlama Araştırmaları Dergisi is the property of Pazarlama & Pazarlama Arastirmalari Dernegi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Nisar: Journal of Religious Studies / Dini Tetkikler Dergisi is the property of NISAR and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study delves into the intricate interplay of economic growth components, specifically focusing on consumption and investment in Saudi Arabia from 2000 to 2022. Employing vector error correction models and co-integration techniques, we analyze the short- and long-term dynamics within the relationship of consumption, investment, and economic growth. Granger causality analysis is also used to discern these pivotal variables' causal connections. Our empirical analysis reveals a persistent long-term cointegration relationship among the variables, underscoring the enduring nature of their interdependency. Furthermore, our findings highlight consumption and investment's statistically significant positive impact on economic growth. Notably, the short-term analysis unveils a stable model characterized by an annual adjustment to equilibrium of 100%. Moreover, the Granger causality study demonstrates unidirectional causal linkages among consumption, investment, and economic growth. These findings hold substantial implications for policy formulation in Saudi Arabia. Policymakers must grasp the ramifications of burgeoning prosperity and evolving private consumption patterns on future environmental outcomes. Achieving sustainable long-term results necessitates equal emphasis on bolstering private consumption and fostering other facets of economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has become an objective and updated surveillance strategy for monitoring and estimating consumption trends of psychoactive substances (PSs) in the population. Firstly, magnetic shrimp shell biochar-based adsorbent (DZMBC) was synthesized and employed for extraction trace PSs from municipal wastewater. Proper pyrolysis temperature and increased KOH activator content favored the pore structure and surface area, thus facilitating extraction. DZMBC delivered exceptional extraction performance such as pH stability, anti-interference property, fast magnetic separation ability, reusability, and reproducibility. Then, a method based on magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) followed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) was developed, validated, and utilized for the quantitative determination of five PSs in real wastewater samples. Methodological validation results indicated a favorable linearity, low method limits of detection (1.00–4.75 ng/L), and good precisions (intra-day and inter-day relative standard deviations < 4.8%). Finally, an objective snapshot of Chongqing drug use and consumption pattern was obtained. Methamphetamine (MAMP) and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) were the prevalent illegal drugs in local. Both concentrations and per capita consumption of MDMA displayed a change (P < 0.05) between July and September, while no statistical differences were observed for each week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By examining the econometric interrelationships of rice export prices of India, Thailand, Vietnam, Pakistan, the U.S. Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, this study examines the most influential rice-exporting countries in the international rice export market. The sampled countries are the source of more than 80% of the global rice exports. In the process, this study relies on online data portals of the United Nations and country-level sources for aromatic and non-aromatic rice export price information from India, Pakistan, and Thailand. This study employed the Prais-Winsten and Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) estimation processes with the error correction procedure. Combining the findings from both models, this study concludes that in terms of interactions, the non-aromatic long-grain rice price of the U.S. and the aromatic rice price of Pakistan are the most correlated prices in the international rice market. Considering the number of countries influenced by the price of a given country, our results indicate that Vietnam is the price leader in the non-aromatic long-grain market, followed by Argentina, Brazil, and India. India, the largest exporter, is the fourth top price leader. In the case of aromatic rice, Thailand is the absolute leader. Many countries in Asia and Africa rely on rice imports to meet domestic demand, where the food security situation is already precarious. Based on the findings, this study suggests closely monitoring rice production and export trends of Vietnam, Argentina, Brazil, India and Thailand to provide early warning when necessary to better manage supply shocks in the international rice market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the evolution of consumption practices in Venice in the long eighteenth century through the combined use of post‐mortem inventories and household budgets. Although Italy experienced a period of relative decline between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, our findings suggest that Venetian households enjoyed a rich and vibrant material culture that was fully comparable with those of the most advanced European urban economies. However, although new products, practices, and fashions were adopted by Venetian society, the architecture of consumption did not undergo sudden and extreme changes; rather, consumption was gradually refined, following the path that it had begun during the Renaissance. We therefore argue that the Venetian economy did not experience a consumer revolution but, instead, consumer evolution. Moreover, this study shows that sophisticated consumption practices were not exclusive to the more dynamic economies of the continent but were widespread even in those regions that were victims of the Little Divergence. We thus suggest that the relationship between consumption development and economic development was not necessarily causal and that the diffusion of new consumption practices throughout society was a necessary, but insufficient, prerequisite for economic take‐off. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aristocracy and their use of commercial credit are seldom explored in the European comparative context despite important studies of the French aristocracy and their credit relations with shopkeepers, tradesmen and fashion merchants. This article studies the aristocracy and commercial credit in England, Germany and Sweden, by drawing on the normative literature and the account books, receipted bills, correspondence and diaries of several families occupying different echelons of the nobility. We examine the extent and nature of aristocratic engagement with shop credit, the ways in which they manipulated and managed this credit, and their motivations for doing so. We argue that the aristocracy was involved in a modern commercial credit economy and that this was central to their position in society and way of life. Our analysis of the ideals communicated through conduct books and parental advice and the actual credit practices of the aristocracy show that they took their credit arrangements seriously. They had to abide by the rules of commercial credit and settle their accounts: sometimes promptly, most often in a timely manner and only occasionally after considerable delay. The article offers a comparative framework for further and broader studies on the aristocracy within economic history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to provide an overview of the consumption of local products in variations of staple foods, responses to learning about food topics in science learning, and responses to the habit-forming environment of 117 junior high school students. Data were collected using a Google form questionnaire and the results of data collection were analyzed using descriptive analysis techniques with a percentage. The results showed the use of variations of staple foods other than rice (cassava, corn, bananas and others) as staple foods by 58.1%, while as a snack it was 69.2%. A number of 94.9% of students consider it important to learn material about food, especially its function, role, benefits, and its relation to the environment in science learning. As much as 69.2% said that the family and community environment can build habits to take advantage of other variations in the consumption of staple foods while the school environment is 64.1%. These results provide an illustration of the use of variations in other staple foods used by students as snacks and rice is the main staple food in daily consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial light at night (ALAN) is a growing threat to coastal habitats, and is likely to exacerbate the impacts of other stressors. Kelp forests are dominant habitats on temperate reefs but are declining due to ocean warming and overgrazing. We tested the independent and interactive effects of ALAN (dark versus ALAN) and warming (ambient versus warm) on grazing rates and gonad index of the sea urchin Centrostephanus rodgersii. Within these treatments, urchins were fed either 'fresh' kelp or 'treated' kelp. Treated kelp (Ecklonia radiata) was exposed to the same light and temperature combinations as urchins. We assessed photosynthetic yield, carbon and nitrogen content and C : N ratio of treated kelp to help identify potential drivers behind any effects on urchins. Grazing increased with warming and ALAN for urchins fed fresh kelp, and increased with warming for urchins fed treated kelp. Gonad index was higher in ALAN/ambient and dark/warm treatments compared to dark/ambient treatments for urchins fed fresh kelp. Kelp carbon content was higher in ALAN/ambient treatments than ALAN/warm treatments at one time point. This indicates ocean warming and ALAN may increase urchin grazing pressure on rocky reefs, an important finding for management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study explores the inclusion of poetry in the realm of consumer research in tourism, consumption, and sustainability, with a study of the poem “The Dolphins” by Carol Ann Duffy. It reflects on the analysis of poetry in advancing our understanding of tourism consumption, and deliberates that poetry could provide insight into complex, emotional, painful, and cruel consumption facets. The study crafts a reference point for the use of poetry as a data source and a methodological tool in tourism and sustainability research and highlights how poetry could help in advancing our understanding of ethical consumption and its confluence with animal welfare in tourism and raising ethical awareness and sensitivity. The study also reflects on the themes of expanding our consciousness as part of being better humans and tourists, and raising the social consciousness of organizations to work towards animal welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study explores youth eco-literacy and its role in addressing the climate crisis, consumption, and socio-political challenges. Eco-literacy involves environmental understanding, skills, and critical perspectives, enabling active engagement and informed decision-making. Through geo-social lenses, I examine how Turkish youth participate politically, both online and offline, in climate change and consumerism dialogues, considering local, global, and planetary perspectives. The analysis focuses on young people’s interpretive agency, creatively expressing environmental ideologies and shaping values with a political stance characterized by reflexivity, agency, and commitment to daily activism and eco-friendly lifestyles. Qualitative data collection included discussions on daily environmental practices and essays on environmental citizenship, covering eco-literacy sources, responsible actors, and ecological awareness strategies. Findings illustrate how young participants address opportunities and disparities, utilizing the research environment for collective learning and action. The study further investigates young people’s showcase of their eco-literacies and advocacy for a public (eco) pedagogy beyond traditional education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based milk is any product that resembles animal or bovine milk but is made from plant extracts. While plant-based milk is considered a better alternative to bovine milk ethically, environmentally, and health-wise, the demand for plant analogues remains low in India because the country is the largest producer and consumer of bovine milk globally. To increase the credibility of plant-based milk as a food product in a competitive market like India, it is essential to understand consumer perspectives regarding plant-based substitutes. In-depth interviews were used to understand respondents' views, experiences, feelings, and perspectives regarding plant-based milk consumption. A thematic analysis of the interview transcripts identified the primary motivators, deterrents, and marketing scope for plant-based milk consumption in a bovine dairy-dominated nation like India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Does political conflict with another country influence domestic consumers' daily consumption choices? We exploit the volatile US-China relations in 2018 and 2019 to analyze whether US consumers reduce their visits to Chinese restaurants when bilateral relations deteriorate. We measure the degree of political conflict through negativity in media reports and rely on smartphone location data to measure daily visits to over 190,000 US restaurants. A deterioration in US-China relations induces a significant decline in visits not only to Chinese but also to other foreign ethnic restaurants, while visits to typical American restaurants increase. We identify consumers' age, race, and cultural openness to moderate the strength of this ethnocentric effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reflecting on and becoming aware of our food consumption practices is a necessity, given the environmental problems we face as humanity. The literature reports that the processes involved in beef production have a negative impact on the environment. Therefore, talking about this in school is relevant to contribute to the development of sustainable consumption practices. However, specific materials to address this issue are scarce. This led us to produce an educational material, which we subjected to an evaluation process using the Delphi method to identify areas of opportunity to improve its design. We conducted 3 rounds of evaluation in which a panel of 5 experts participated, their opinions were categorized into eight dimensions using content analysis. In round 3 we achieved stability of opinions, and throughout the process we identified 34 areas of opportunity, mainly related to the dimension Design of activities. The expert evaluation experience reaffirmed that this is a mechanism that contributes to the quality of educational materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, gambling has become increasingly prominent in everyday life; the term 'gamblification' first emerged in the late 2000s and was used to describe the colonisation of sports and sporting cultures by the gambling industry. Since that time, gamblification has been used to describe a range of phenomena in increasingly diffuse contexts; it has been variously used as a proxy for the convergence of gaming and gambling, to describe specific monetisation practices, or as a means of motivating consumer behaviours. Conceptual clarity has been further muddied by the positioning of gamblification as a form of gamification. This work provides a definition of gamblification, which draws upon and consolidates existing uses of the term while also providing a lens through which the differing aspects of gamblification can be understood and appraised. By doing so, this work will establish a clear conceptual framework, which can structure in-depth discussions of this multi-dimensional phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How does spending from a used (vs. unused) account affect consumption behavior? An account is used when some resources of that account have been used (e.g., $90 has been used on a gift card that originally had $100). An account is unused when no resources of that account have been used (e.g., no money has been used on a gift card that has $10). Across seven studies (N= 8,667), we find that people are more likely to spend resources from a used account than otherwise equivalent resources from an unused account. This is because people engage in within-account comparisons, comparing the remaining resources in the account with what the account originally had, leading them to value the remaining resources less in a used account. We demonstrate the robustness of the effect of a used (vs. unused) account across several domains, including gift cards, checking accounts, and credit card reward points. Further, we demonstrate a boundary condition of the effect, revealing that the proportion of the account remaining moderates the subsequent consumption. Lastly, we generalize this effect from consumption to charitable giving. The findings provide insights into how policymakers, companies, and individuals may consider leveraging the perception of an account being used or unused to curb expenses and encourage charitable giving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work we investigate an optimal control problem related to the following chemotaxis-consumption model in a bounded domain Ω ⊂ R 3 : ∂ t u - Δ u = - ∇ · (u ∇ v) , ∂ t v - Δ v = - u s v + f v 1 Ω c , with s ≥ 1 , endowed with isolated boundary conditions and initial conditions for (u, v), being u the cell density, v the chemical concentration and f the control acting in the v-equation through the bilinear term f v 1 Ω c , in a subdomain Ω c ⊂ Ω . We address the existence of optimal control restricted to a weak solution setting, where, in particular, uniqueness of state (u, v) given a control f is not clear. Then by considering weak solutions satisfying an adequate energy inequality, we prove the existence of optimal control subject to uniformly bounded controls. Finally, we discuss the relation between the considered control problem and two other related ones, where the existence of optimal solution can not be proved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are in trouble half-way towards their target date of 2030. With increasing global inequalities, and reversal in developmental gains because of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as financial and political instability, achieving the goals in the next seven years seems difficult. We undertake an exercise in defining an ecological system of the SDGs to argue that focusing on two sentinel goals of SDGs 5 & 12 ('gender equality' and 'responsible consumption and production') could be key to achieving the other goals. The linkages posited in the SDG ecosystem are based upon our reading of the literature from a political economic and political ecological perspective. Prioritising SDGs 5 and 12 requires more of political rather than a financial commitment. The paper proposes a pathway to achieving some success in realising SDGs during their remaining half-life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research included the most important sugars are beet sugar and cane sugar, and edible oils group, which included soybean oil, sunflower oil, maize oil, and hydrogenated oils. The aim of the research was to identify the current situation and the future vision for them. The problem of the research was to determine the amount of production and consumption and predict them, and the average amounted to annual quantities of sugar produced and consumed are about 1.86 and 2.45 thousand tons, and the annual geometric average of the self-sufficiency rate reached 76.91%. It is expected that the total amount of sugar production will reach about 2.98, 3.07, 3.15, and 3.23 million tons in the years 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027. Its total consumption amounts to about 3.93, 4.04, 4.14, and 4.25 million tons for the same years in a row, with a self-sufficiency rate representing about 75.97%, 75.98%, 75.98%, and 75.98% for the same years, respectively. Current status of the most important oils in Egypt, which are soybean oil and rotary oil. Sun, maize oil, frozen oils, and the total amount of oils in Egypt for the period (2000-2021) showed that the geometric average of the selfsufficiency rate is about 40.89%, 13.90%, 32.03%, 111.83%, and 63.48%, respectively, and it was expected for the years (2024 -2027). It is expected that the rate of self-sufficiency in soybean oil will reach about 66.81%, 67.68%, 68.51%, 69.29% in the years 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, sunflower oils are about 2.54%, 2.10%, 1.70%, and 1.31% for the same year, respectively, and maize oils are about 12.41%, 11.09%, 9.82%, 8.58%, and 7.38% for the same year, respectively. Perhaps the oils are heading toward 120.07%, 120.58%, 121.05%, 121.51%, and 121.94% for the same year, respectively. It is expected that the self-sufficiency rate of total oils will reach about 70.31%, 70.51%, 70.70%, 70.88%, and 71.04% for the same years, respectively [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Milk is an important source of protein for many Indian households. However, milk intake is very low. Hence, it is necessary to examine production-consumption linkages of milk within the paradigm of accessibility, availability, and affordability. Objectives: This study examined linkages between milk consumption and production, accounting for sales and factors associated with production investments in rural Bihar, a major milk-producing state of India with very poor nutritional status. Methods: A panel of households from the Gaya and Nalanda districts of Bihar were surveyed: the first round in July and August 2019 (n = 2026 households) and the second round from December 2019 to January 2020 (n = 2001 households). Data were collected on household consumption, production, and sale of milk, as well as other foods. The study examines the consumption-production linkage of milk and the association of dietary diversity with consumption from own production, with households as the unit of analysis. Ordinary least square regression analysis of average monthly household milk consumption was used to identify factors associated with milk consumption, particularly milk production. Results: The median (Quartile 1, Quartile 3) per capita milk consumption per day was 83.3 (41.6, 166.6) mL in the milk-consuming households. Average monthly household milk consumption in liters was higher in milk-producing households [β: 7.1; 95% confidence interval (CI): 6.1, 8.1] than households relying on market purchases. Household milk consumption was higher in the third tertile of milk production than the first tertile of production (β: 14.3 L/wk; 95% CI: 12.1, 17.2) and lower in the highest tertile of household sale quantity (β: -8.8 L/wk in tertile 3, 95% CI: -12.7, -5) than the first tertile of household sale quantity of milk. Conclusions: The study provides evidence that consumption of milk in rural households is associated with own production such that households with higher production consume more. However, sale preferences restrict the quantity of milk consumed in milk-producing households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the assessment and enhancement of food sustainability, exploring the multifaceted factors that shape consumption patterns. In a world marked by growing concerns about food security and environmental sustainability, understanding the dynamics of food consumption becomes paramount. Through a comprehensive analysis, this research delves into various dimensions of food sustainability, encompassing environmental impact, social equity, and economic viability. The methodology involved evaluating primary food sustainability indicators and concluded with a social survey analysis. Forecasts for the average daily food consumption per capita were interpreted. The study examined the Global Food Security Index (GFSI) in Europe, reflecting food access levels and the population's ability to secure adequate, safe, and nutritious food. The aim was to identify the most precise and statistically valid forecast method. Romania ranks 23rd in the GFSI overall score, which is improving. It stands 25th in accessibility, 21st in food availability, and also 21st in quality and security. While the overall score, accessibility, and availability show positive trends, quality and safety exhibit a decline. The critical analysis led to recommendations for a unified strategy to boost food sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research is to examine the present condition of food security within the framework of preparations for future adoption of reforms under the new Common Agricultural Policy, as well as the development of the National Strategy for the Development of Agriculture and Rural Area (SNDASR) for the period 2012-2027. It evaluates key indicators related to food security and culminates in an examination of a social survey conducted in the North-eastern Region of Romania. This study has specific objectives: to assess the level of food security within Romania and compare it with global and/or European standards using FAO-provided indicators, and to evaluate the extent of food security assurance specifically within the North-eastern Region of Romania. In recent years, there has been a growing focus on food security, particularly concerning food safety. It's important to clarify the distinction between food security and food safety, as they are often conflated. While food security encompasses indicators related to food access for the population, food safety is more concerned with the quality, sanitation, and safety of food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study, which aims to analyze the causes of Cameroon's permanent dependence on rice imports, is inspired by the observation that the expense linked to rice imports has a very negative influence on the Cameroonian trade balance; however, the country produces rice which is mainly exported to certain neighboring countries. To carry out this study, the objectives were set to analyze the marketing channels of Cameroonian rice, and to identify the factors that favors rice consumption. The target populations are traders and consumers of rice in Cameroon. The regions covered are those of the Far North, North, and Center, which produce most of the rice in Cameroon. To collect data in the field, questionnaires and interview guides were developed. As for the traders, an interview guide was used to collect information, after carrying out a categorization. For this purpose, local wholesalers of paddy rice, foreign wholesalers of paddy rice, foreign wholesalers of processed rice, retailers of markets close to production areas, local wholesalers of processed rice, wholesale retailers, supermarkets, and shopswere identified. At the consumer level, populations residing in production areas, populations in metropolises close to production areas, and populations in metropolises far from production areas were identified. The data collected was analyzed using software such as SPSS and Excel spreadsheet. The tables and figures made it possible to clearly present the results, and thus facilitate their interpretation. It therefore appears that wholesalers of paddy rice who sell it directly to foreign buyers, making a gross margin for an 80 kg bag which varies between 2,000 and 3,000 FCFA, while those who process before reselling on the local market make barely a margin of 500 FCFA. In addition to this observation, we observe that wholesalers of processed rice who sell their products in metropolises far from the production basins have a gross margin which is completely double that observed in the metropolises close to the production basins; which is justified by the presence of intermediaries, and the transport costs necessary to ensure the transition of rice from production areas to consumption centers. The results show that 43.2% of Cameroonians consume on average 1 kg of rice per day; but unfortunately, most are not aware of the existence of locally produced rice, and even those who are aware of it cannot easily find it on the market. In the metropolises of the southern zone of Cameroon, for example, we have around 50% of the population who are not aware of the fact that there is rice produced in Cameroon, 30% of the population who are informed but never had the opportunity to consume it. In view of all these parameters, Cameroonian rice is oriented primarily towards neighboring countries which are closer to the production basins, while the country continues to import rice from outside to satisfy the needs of its populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human needs and the consumer behaviour are in a permanent transformation and having more sustainable and healthy food becomes a priority. The consumer behaviour follows the trends of the population needs. Eco-food consumption is increasing, as a result of agricultural, nutritional and food production policies. The producers in the eco-food branch should focus on quality that meets the consumers' demands. This study is focused on eco-food products analysis from the new consumption behaviour and sustainability point of view. The main purpose is to analyse the attributes perceived by consumers and their interest related to viability and sustainability of the ecofood, in association with expected benefits. The methods used for research are the market survey and focus group, alongside the incursion in the literature related to eco-food consumption behaviour. The research area is delimited on Iași County population, only for the eco-food products consumers. The results indicate a growing interest for the eco-food consumption, especially among middle-aged people, interested in better quality of life, personal and family health, and a sustainable new lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue of socially responsible consumer behavior has been of great interest to researchers for years. It seems important to acquire knowledge about consumer behavior, especially among young people, who are a special group of consumers. In recent years, it is not only the purchasing power of young people that has been growing, but also the range of market choices they make. In this context, it is important to identify the determinants of consumer behavior to predict the directions of changes in the behavior of young people as consumers. One of the interesting research areas is determining the role of prayer, or more broadly, human spiritual development, in shaping consumer behavior. Some research suggests that there is a relationship between religion, or more precisely, religious practices and consumption. This work presents the most important definitions of a socially responsible consumer, presenting the most important aspects of this attitude. This work also presents previous research on the relationship between religiosity, prayer and consumer behavior. This research on the SRC attitude among young people was conducted using an online survey. The collected data were tested using the χ2 test of independence. Owing to the obtained results, it was possible to indicate the aspects of SRC in which the attitude to prayer is important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Acculturation is a multidimensional concept and often means paying attention to different cultures. Since in acculturation, one seeks alternative attributes and values, this can affect the consumption of goods by the consumer. Considering the role of consumption of domestic goods on the economic growth and development of the country, it is important to identify the dimensions and components of consumer acculturation and research in this field. Therefore, this study seeks to identify the dimensions and components of consumer acculturation in the consumption of domestic goods and to develop a scale in this regard. The present study has been done by the mixed method. The statistical population of the research in the qualitative stage included experts in the Iranian clothing industry, which due to theoretical saturation, a sample of 20 people was selected by judgment. In the quantitative stage, the statistical population consisted of clothing consumers in Iran, of which 310 were selected by cluster sampling. After interviewing the experts, the thematic analysis method was used to identify the main components. Then, using quantitative methods such as exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, the identified components were classified in the form of dimensions and were verified. In the end, the scale of consumer acculturation in the consumption of domestic goods, including the main dimensions and components was proposed. The main contribution of this paper is developing and validating a multidimensional scale for consumer acculturation in the clothing sector, which has been overlooked in previous research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aims to provide insights into the respective contributions of each factor to overall economic expansion. This article uses qualitative methods with literature from scientific articles as a reference to the results of the research in this article. The researcher provides a perspective on the appropriate literature to support this scientific article as a final result. The study's findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners who want to drive sustainable economic development. By understanding the complex interplay between different economic variables and their impact on growth, policymakers can design more effective policies aimed at fostering an inclusive and resilient economy. In addition, these findings affirm the importance of ongoing research and analysis to deepen our understanding of the drivers of economic growth and provide a basis for evidence-based policy decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]